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Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta)

Israeli · Side · Easy

Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta)

Total
30 min
Prep
10 min
Serves
4
Calories
300
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Tiny toasted pasta pearls absorb sweet onion and finish fluffy with parsley, an everyday Israeli side made in one saucepan.

Toasting brings out the nutty wheat flavor in Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta) before water swells the little pearls. In Israel, they are a familiar accompaniment to saucy chicken or vegetables, with enough texture to be worth eating on their own.

Choose dry pearl-shaped ptitim and stir them well during the first stage. Once the lid goes on, lower the heat so the bottom does not catch before the pasta has absorbed its cooking liquid.

SavoryHerbyOne Pot30 MinuteBudgetVeganVegetarianDairy-freeNut-freeEgg-free

Method

  1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook the onion for until soft and translucent.

  2. Add the pearl couscous and stir for until some pearls turn golden and smell toasted.

  3. Pour in water and add salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer over low heat for until the pasta is tender and the water is absorbed.

  4. Remove from the heat and let stand covered for . Fluff with a fork and fold through the parsley.

Forkue tips

  • Brands differ in pearl size. If the pasta is still firm when dry, add 2 tbsp hot water and cook covered for another 2 minutes.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat covered with a splash of water and loosen the pearls with a fork; add fresh parsley after warming.

Kitchen gear

Lidded saucepanTop picks on Amazon
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Nutrition per serving, estimated

300Calories
8gProtein
49gCarbs
8gFat

Photo: Joey Doll, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)

Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta): FAQ

Is ptitim the same as couscous?

No. Ptitim is toasted pasta, usually sold as pearl or Israeli couscous. Fine couscous granules hydrate much faster and cannot replace it with the same method.

Can I use orzo?

Yes, for a similar pasta side, though the shape and texture change. Follow its package liquid and cooking guidance instead of assuming the pearls' timing.

How do I store and reheat Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta)?

Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat covered with a splash of water and loosen the pearls with a fork; add fresh parsley after warming.

How long does Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta) take?

About 30 min in total: 10 min prep and 20 min cooking.

What do I need to make Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta)?

The key ingredients are pearl couscous, onion and parsley, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Ptitim (Israeli Toasted Pasta)?

Brands differ in pearl size. If the pasta is still firm when dry, add 2 tbsp hot water and cook covered for another 2 minutes.

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